RICHMOND, Va., Nov. 1, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2019 Commemoration announced that it has received a $1.2 million gift from Dominion Resources to support commemoration events and projects marking the 400^th anniversary of key events in the founding of America.

Dominion is making the gift through its charitable arm, the Dominion Foundation, to build awareness of Virginia's unique role in the creation of the United States. As a Founding Partner of the 2019 Commemoration, Dominion will help underwrite renovation of the Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center in Hampton, Virginia.

"We are pleased to have Dominion join us as a Founding Partner," said Kathy Spangler, Executive Director of the 2019 Commemoration. "Through sponsored events and legacy projects, Dominion will assist us in commemorating the events of 1619 while using a contemporary lens to engage Americans in discussions about the present and the future."  

"Our company is built on a legacy of public service, innovation and community involvement, and we are proud to partner with the 2019 Commemoration," said Thomas F. Farrell II, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Dominion Resources. "Virginia is our corporate home, and we want the nation to learn about our history and our path to democracy, diversity and opportunity."

"Designating a portion of this donation to the exhibits at the Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center is a strategic investment in telling the story of this country and inspiring discussions about the rich history of the American Evolution," said Glenn Oder, Executive Director of the Fort Monroe Authority. "This generous gift will assist us – the Fort Monroe Authority and the National Park Service – in welcoming visitors and sharing the storied history of the early exploration of Captain John Smith, the first arrival of Africans to English North America in 1619, as well as the Contraband Decision in 1861 that led to thousands of enslaved people to seek their asylum at Freedom's Fortress."

The 2019 Commemoration, under the theme AMERICAN EVOLUTION™ seeks to showcase Virginia's role in the creation of the United States by highlighting events that occurred in 1619: the first legislative assembly in the New World, the arrival of the first Africans to English North America, the arrival of women to build community, the first official English Thanksgiving in North America, and the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurialism that became a model for the American spirit.

For more information about the 2019 Commemoration, visit AmericanEvolution2019.com.

About the 2019 Commemoration

The 2019 Commemoration, AMERICAN EVOLUTION™, highlights events that occurred in Virginia in 1619 that continue to influence America today. Featured programs, events and legacy projects will position Virginia as a leader in education, tourism and economic development. AMERICAN EVOLUTION™ commemorates the ongoing journey toward the key ideals of democracy, diversity and opportunity.    

About Dominion Resources

Dominion Resources is the parent company of Dominion (NYSE: D), headquartered in Richmond, Va., Dominion is one of the nation's largest producers and transporters of energy. The Dominion Foundation is dedicated to improving the physical, social and economic well-being of the communities served by Dominion companies, including Dominion Virginia Power. Dominion and the Dominion Foundation support nonprofit causes that meet basic human needs, protect the environment, promote education and encourage community vitality. For more information about Dominion and the Dominion Foundation, visit www.dom.com.

SOURCE Dominion Resources